Calamopleurus sp.CretaceousSantana Formation, BrazilThis spectacular giant of the Cretaceous seas has been prepared with both sides of the skull visible in a marvelous three-dimensional presentation. An effective predator capable of handling large prey, Calamopleurus (a giant predatory bowfin) possessed a menacing mouthful of approximately twenty-four fang-like conical teeth, as exemplified by the present specimen. It has been proposed that this ancient ancestor to the modern-day mudfish, Amia calva, may be the most primitive known amiine. The Calamopleurus cylindricus species was one of the original seven species of fossil fish from the Santana Formation to be named by L. Agassiz in 1841. The Santana Formation is a world-famous locality, known for the exceptional preservation of its fossil faunal assemblages. The present offering is an exceptional example, featuring beautifully preserved fins, fine scales and paired pectoral fins, which have been carefully prepared to complement the amazing presentation of the skull, which reveals the formidable teeth which characterize this genus. The result of this careful artistic preparation is the illusion that the fish is actually swimming, with mouth open, ready to attack. This stunning display piece has been prepared and mounted by Annesuse Raquet-Schwickert of Germany. Offered on a natural petrified wood base from Indonesia. Measures 43 x 38 x 15in; specimen measures 38in

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.

Buyers' Obligations

ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.

If you have any complaints or questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest customer services team.

Buyers' Premium and Charges

Buyer's Premium Rates25% on the first $150,000 of the Hammer Price20% from $150,001 to $3,000,000 of the Hammer Price12% on the excess over $3,000,001 of the Hammer Price

Payment Notices

Payment for purchases may be made in or by (a) cash, (b) cashier's check or money order, (c) personal check with approved credit drawn on a U.S. bank, (d) wire transfer or other immediate bank transfer, or (e) Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover credit, charge or debit card. A processing fee will be assessed on any returned checks. Please note that the amount of cash notes and cash equivalents that can be accepted from a given purchaser may be limited.

Shipping Notices

For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licences please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.